Most people know Marge Cooney as the first wife of Phil Donahue, the famous talk show host. But if you take a closer look, you’ll find a woman who lived a life full of quiet love, strength, and purpose. Marge was not a celebrity, but her life had deep meaning.
She raised a big family, stayed true to her values, and helped others without seeking attention. She didn’t want fame — she just wanted to live a simple, honest life. Her story is calm, yet full of lessons about kindness, family, and peace.
In this article, we will look at who Marge Cooney really was. From her early days to her final years, we’ll explore her journey step by step. This is not just a story about being married to someone famous. This is about a strong woman who chose love, faith, and family over fame.
Margaret Mary Cooney Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Margaret Mary Cooney |
| Famous As | First wife of Phil Donahue |
| Date of Birth | 1936 |
| Place of Birth | West Orange, New Jersey, USA |
| Date of Death | February 2, 2018 |
| Age at Death | 82 years old |
| Education | St. Mary’s High School, College of Mount St. Joseph, Marquette University |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Marriage Date | February 1, 1958 |
| Divorce Year | 1975 |
| Children | 5 – Michael, Kevin, Daniel, James, Mary Rose |
| Later Residence | Albuquerque (NM), Sea Girt (NJ), Boca Raton (FL) |
| Known For | Quiet life, community service, strong family values |
| Legacy | Loving mother, devoted grandmother, woman of faith and kindness |
Her Early Life and Family Background
Marge Cooney was born in 1936 in West Orange, New Jersey. Her full name was Margaret Mary Cooney. She grew up in a simple, loving home. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. James B. Cooney. From a young age, she learned the importance of kindness, faith, and family.
Her childhood was not filled with cameras or attention. She lived a quiet life, like many others. She later moved with her family to Chatham, New Jersey, and also spent time in Boca Raton, Florida. These places shaped her gentle and peaceful nature.
Marge loved the Jersey Shore, especially a town called Sea Girt. She spent summers there for nearly 57 years. It was her happy place. That calm environment matched the peaceful way she lived. She didn’t want noise or fame — she wanted comfort and care.
Her School and College Years
Marge Cooney went to St. Mary’s High School, where she was known for being thoughtful and kind. She enjoyed learning and had strong values from her Catholic background. She always respected teachers and helped her classmates.
After high school, she joined the College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati, Ohio. It was here that her journey took a big turn — because during college, she met a young man named Phil Donahue. He would later become a big name in television.
Later on, Marge also studied at Marquette University in Wisconsin. She was serious about her education. But more than grades, she cared about people and values. These years helped her grow into the caring woman she would later become.
How She Met Phil Donahue
Marge and Phil met when they were both in college. They didn’t meet in a fancy place — just through everyday college life. They liked talking to each other and had the same values. Their connection was real and simple, not flashy.
They fell in love slowly and built trust over time. Phil was still figuring out his career, and Marge supported him quietly. She didn’t care about fame. She liked him for who he was — a man with dreams and a kind heart.
Their love story was private and sweet. After dating for a while, they decided to start a life together. They believed in family, faith, and supporting each other. It was the beginning of a deep and meaningful chapter in Marge Cooney’s life.
Marriage and Family Life
Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue got married on February 1, 1958. Their wedding took place at San Felipe de Neri Church, and it was a simple, loving event. They were young, full of hope, and ready to start a family together.
Over the years, they built a home filled with love. As Phil worked on his career in television, Marge focused on raising their family. She never looked for attention. She was the heart of the home — calm, strong, and always there for the children.
They had five children together. Their family life was busy, full of laughter, learning, and support. Marge made sure the house felt safe and warm. Even as Phil’s career grew, she stayed grounded and kept the family close.
Her Five Children
Marge Cooney became a mother to Michael, Kevin, Daniel, James, and Mary Rose. Each child brought joy into her life. She gave them love, support, and a sense of home. She taught them good values, like being honest, kind, and hard-working.
Raising five kids wasn’t easy, but Marge never complained. She gave them her full attention. She cooked for them, helped with school, and made sure they always felt cared for. She believed that a mother’s job was to guide with love, not force.
As the children grew, they followed their own paths — but they always carried what Marge taught them. Her lessons stayed in their hearts. They knew their mom had given them a strong start, even without being in the spotlight.
Her Role as a Grandmother
As the years went by, Marge Cooney became a proud and loving grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and loved being around them. For her, family always came first, and that never changed — even as her kids grew up and started families of their own.
She liked to keep things simple. Whether it was baking cookies, reading stories, or just sitting and talking with her grandkids, she always made those moments special. Her home was a safe and warm place. The children loved visiting her, and they felt very close to her.
Marge never tried to be fancy or strict. She was soft-spoken, patient, and fun to be with. She gave her grandchildren love without rules or pressure. Just being there, listening, and showing care — that’s what made her such a wonderful grandmother.
Her Faith and Spiritual Life
Marge Cooney’s faith was a big part of her life. She followed the Catholic faith and stayed close to her church community. She didn’t talk much about religion, but she lived it in her actions — with kindness, respect, and calmness in everything she did.
She was an active member of St. Mark’s Church in Sea Girt, New Jersey. She also gave her time to St. Joan of Arc Church in Boca Raton, Florida. Marge loved helping with church events, being part of prayer groups, and supporting others who needed a helping hand.
Even when no one was watching, Marge followed her beliefs. Her faith gave her peace, especially during hard times like her divorce or when life changed. She found strength in prayer, and it helped her stay calm, gentle, and thoughtful — always choosing love and peace.
Her Kindness and Community Work
One of the best things about Marge Cooney was her quiet kindness. She didn’t try to show off or take credit. She helped people because it felt right, not because she wanted attention or praise. Her actions were always honest and from the heart.
She gave to her community in many small but meaningful ways. She volunteered for local events, church programs, and helped neighbors when they needed support. If someone needed food, a ride, or just someone to talk to — Marge was there.
She once told a friend, “You don’t have to talk about the good you do. You just have to do it.” That simple idea was how she lived. Her quiet service touched many lives, even though she never looked for thanks. She made the world better in her own peaceful way.
When She Passed Away
Marge Cooney passed away on February 2, 2018, at the age of 82. She died peacefully at Brandywine at Wall, a senior care home in New Jersey. Her passing was gentle, just like the life she lived. She was surrounded by the quiet love of her family and friends.
Her death didn’t make big headlines, but for those who knew her, it was a big loss. Her children, grandchildren, and everyone who loved her felt the sadness. But they also felt proud to have had someone like her in their lives — someone so full of heart.
Even after she passed, her spirit stayed with them. Her gentle ways, her values, and the love she gave are still remembered. She may not be here in person, but she left behind so much love that it will never fade.
Final Thoughts
Marge Cooney’s life teaches us that you don’t need to be famous to matter. She lived a quiet life, but it was full of meaning. She chose love over attention, family over fame, and kindness over pride. That’s what made her special.
She showed that strength doesn’t always mean being loud. Sometimes, it means being calm, patient, and steady — even when life is hard. Her story is a reminder that the simplest lives often hold the deepest beauty.
When we think of Marge Cooney, we should remember more than just a name or her link to Phil Donahue. We should remember a woman who gave everything to her family, followed her faith with love, and helped others without ever needing to be seen. That is a life worth celebrating.
(FAQs)
When did Marge Cooney marry Phil Donahue?
Marge Cooney married Phil Donahue on February 1, 1958, after they met in college and fell in love.
How many children did Marge Cooney have?
She had five children with Phil Donahue — Michael, Kevin, Daniel, James, and Mary Rose.
Why did Marge Cooney and Phil Donahue divorce?
They divorced in 1975 after 17 years of marriage. The reasons were kept private and not shared with the public.
Did Marge Cooney remarry after the divorce?
No, Marge Cooney did not remarry. She chose a quiet life focused on her family and her faith.
Where did Marge Cooney live after the divorce?
After the divorce, she moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, and later lived on the East Coast, including time in Sea Girt, New Jersey, and Boca Raton, Florida.
More Explore:
Meet Chad Boyce: Behind the Camera The Life, Career and Family
Who Is Sophia Macy? Inside Her Life, Family, and Felicity Huffman’s Daughter
Jodi Faeth’s Journey: Love, Health, Family With Mike Wolfe’s
